Commonly Known Chemical Weapons Agents

In this article

Phosgene

Description. When it is first dispersed, phosgene looks like a fog, but it becomes colorless as it spreads, although it doesn't last long. It can smell like newly mown hay but with a poisonous, suffocating odor.

Effects. As a choking agent, phosgene causes fluid buildup in the lungs -- but not until as many as 48 hours after exposure. Inhalation can lead to irreversible lung damage like emphysema and fibrosis (scarring). Phosgene causes severe damage to nose and throat, and can burn skin and eyes. Victims should be given oxygen and have their eyes flushed with water or saline.

Sarin

Description. Sarin is a nerve agent that is clear, colorless, tasteless, and odorless. It's a highly volatile chemical and is mainly an inhalation threat.

Soman

Description. Soman is a nerve agent that is clear, colorless and tasteless, and can have a slight camphor odor or none at all. It can be inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or ingested orally. Nerve agents act very quickly in vapor form; longer in liquid form.

Tabun

Description. Tabun is a nerve agent that is clear, colorless, tasteless, and can have a slight fruity odor or none at all. It can be inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or ingested. Nerve agents act very quickly in vapor form; longer in liquid form.